tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72226471046228096072018-06-30T02:35:50.540-04:00C.K. Remodeling & DesignC.K. Remodeling &amp; Designnoreply@blogger.comBlogger4125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7222647104622809607.post-55631834140652820922018-06-22T16:19:00.003-04:002018-06-22T16:20:23.069-04:00Summer Projects!<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Summer is a great time to tackle any home improvement or repair project you may have been putting off. Since the weather is nicer, you can now address issues both inside and outside of your home. </span>Below is a list of just a few ideas to help get your home looking its best, while ensuring the safety and comfort of your family members and guests. Most projects take only a day or two to complete, and the results will last a long time. <br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Change outdated lighting fixtures or ceiling fans.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Update old fixtures in the kitchen and bath.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Recaulk bathtubs and shower surrounds to give them a fresh and clean look.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Design and install a creative backsplash in the kitchen.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Add character and to any room by installing decorative molding or a chair rail.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Give your fireplace a facelift by restoring the mantle or retiling the panel and hearth areas.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Reposition your furniture for a new look or to optimize space.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Apply a fresh coat of paint to brighten up any room.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Replace torn screens in the windows and add a locking screen door to let the fresh air in.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Build or install shelving units in the basement and garage to store away unwanted clutter.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Add vertical storage and a folding table in the laundry room. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Reorganize closets by adding shelving units.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Swap out damaged or worn closet doors.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Fix loose railings and banisters throughout the inside and outside of your home.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Install safety bars or rails to the shower for family members and guests needing additional assistance.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Add non-slip pads or a carpet runner to stairs.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Install tile or hardwood floors to any room.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Tighten or replace door knobs and cabinet hardware.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Childproof all cabinets which contain harmful chemicals or hazardous materials and equipment. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Install baby gates inside the home or a fence outside to keep children and pets confined to safe areas.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Maintain the curb appeal of your home by powerwashing the outside of it and landscaping the front yard.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Add lighting that detects motion around the outside of your home, including steps and high-traffic areas. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Build a deck to increase the amount of usable living space for your home.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Feeling ambitious? Do a complete basement, bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room remodel.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Now, take a look around your home and see where improvements need to be made. Should you need assistance with any of your home improvement projects, contact us at (412)965-9361 or ck@ckremodeling.com for a free consultation and estimate. Please visit our website for more information and direct access to our online portfolio. <span class="txt5">Also, we encourage you to follow us on all of our social media sites to keep up to date with our latest activities. While it's clear we enjoy building products, we also enjoy building relationships; so we respectfully "follow back" every person or small business that chooses to follow us on our social media sites.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Have a happy and safe summer! </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Charles Kirby, Owner of C.K. Remodeling &amp; Design</div>C.K. Remodeling &amp; Designnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7222647104622809607.post-85422706798344623412018-03-20T10:12:00.002-04:002018-03-20T10:13:26.021-04:00Spring Fix-Up!<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Spring is finally here, so it's time to start tackling those home improvement &amp; repair projects you've been putting off all winter. As the weather gets nicer, you can now address issues both inside and outside. </span>Below is a list of ideas to help you get your home looking its best; while ensuring the safety and comfort of your family members and guests. Most projects take only a day or two to complete and the results will last a long time. <br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Apply a fresh coat of paint to brighten up any room.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Replace torn screens in the windows and add a locking screen door to let the fresh air in.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Build or install shelving units in the basement and garage to store away unwanted clutter.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Add vertical storage and a folding table in the laundry room. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Reorganize closets by adding shelving units.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Swap out damaged or worn closet doors.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Change outdated lighting fixtures or ceiling fans.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Update old fixtures in the kitchen and bath.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Recaulk bathtubs and shower surrounds to give them a fresh and clean look.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Design and install a creative backsplash in the kitchen.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Add character and to any room by installing decorative molding or a chair rail.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Reposition your furniture for a new look or to optimize space.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Give your fireplace a facelift by restoring the mantle or retiling the panel and hearth areas.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Fix loose railings and banisters throughout the inside and outside of your home.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Install safety bars or rails to the shower for family members and guests needing additional assistance.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Add non-slip pads or a carpet runner to stairs.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Install tile or hardwood floors to any room.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Tighten or replace door knobs and cabinet hardware.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Childproof all cabinets which contain harmful chemicals or hazardous materials and equipment. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Install baby gates inside the home or a fence outside to keep children and pets confined to safe areas.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Maintain the curb appeal of your home by powerwashing the outside of it and landscaping the front yard.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Add lighting that detects motion around the outside of your home, including steps and high-traffic areas. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Build a deck to increase the amount of usable living space for your home.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Feeling ambitious? Do a complete basement, bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room remodel.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Now, take a look around your home and see where improvements need to be made. Should you need assistance with any of your home improvement projects, contact us at (412)965-9361 or ck@ckremodeling.com for a free consultation and estimate. Please visit our website for more information and direct access to our online portfolio. <span class="txt5">Also, we encourage you to follow us on all of our social media sites to keep up to date with our latest activities. While it's clear we enjoy building products, we also enjoy building relationships; so we respectfully "follow back" every person or small business that chooses to follow us on our social media sites.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Happy Spring! </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Charles Kirby, Owner of C.K. Remodeling &amp; Design</div>C.K. Remodeling &amp; Designnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7222647104622809607.post-92050352722267775212018-01-31T12:02:00.003-05:002018-01-31T12:03:24.023-05:0010 Ways to Improve Your Home Using Your Income Tax Refund!<span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">If you're getting some money back on your tax returns, one great way to spend that cash might be to have some simple home repairs done. Many household projects that can have a big impact are actually relatively cheap and easy to do. And, by spending a little money towards improving the look of your home, you can significantly increase your home's perceived value when it comes time to sell! So, if you're among the millions of Americans who are getting money back on their tax returns, here are ten great ways you can use part of that money towards improving your home.</span><br /><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">1. Paint – Yes, it's that simple. A can of paint usually costs under $50, but can make a dramatic improvement to your home's appeal. So, strip off the old wallpaper and sand off the walls for fresh coat of paint. Keep in mind though, that if you're looking to sell your home soon, neutral colors are better for potential buyers.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">2. Refinish the kitchen cabinets – Replacing kitchen cabinets can be pricey, but striping the finish and painting or refinishing it can give a new look without the cost of new cabinetry.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">3. Replace bathroom fixtures – Bathroom and kitchen fixtures may work fine over a long period of time, but the finish will corrode and lose its shiny coat. So replacing these knobs will naturally give the bathroom or kitchen a more updated look.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">4. Replace laminate with tile – Compared to many other materials, tile is relatively cheap and easy to install.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">5. Install decorative molding – Have cracks and imperfections around corners and edges in each room? Get thick molding to cover those spaces while adding a bit of character to the room.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">6. Install organizers – Messy basement? Maybe too much stuff piled into the garage? Build simple shelves and organizers for neat storage. This way, buyers will focus on how much space the home has, instead of what and how much stuff is in it.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">7. Yard work – Sure, people are coming to see the inside of your house when you want to sell it, but curb appeal makes a huge difference on first impressions. Mowing, weeding, and growing some basic plants are all cheap but time consuming projects that will contribute to a better package deal for buyers.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">8. Powerwash the outside of your home – Keep the outside portions of your home clean and add a coat of paint if needed.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">9. Build a deck – Decks not only improve the outer look of your home, but they also significantly increase the amount of usable living space.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">10. Complete remodel – If you hit the jackpot with your refund, then now is the perfect time to completely remodel your basement, bathroom, kitchen, or other living spaces throughout the home. Most buyers want to purchase a home that is move-in ready. If the work is already done, the chances of a buyer choosing your home over another will increase significantly. </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: &quot;calibri&quot; , &quot;sans-serif&quot;; font-size: 11.0pt;">These 10 tips are just the starting point of all the options you have to brighten up your home and increase its value. So, why not put your income tax refund to good use? You'll enjoy the updates while you live in your home, and (more importantly) you'll reap the rewards of increasing its value if you decide to sell it. Remember, a home is usually the biggest investment a person makes in their lifetime. So, be sure to give your home the attention it deserves.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Should you need assistance with any of your home improvement projects, contact us at (412)965-9361 or ck@ckremodeling.com for a free consultation and estimate. Please visit our website for more information and direct access to our online portfolio. <span class="txt5">Also, we encourage you to follow us on all of our social media sites to keep up to date with our latest activities. While it's clear we enjoy building products, we also enjoy building relationships; so we respectfully "follow back" all individuals and small businesses that choose to follow us on our social media sites.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="txt5">All the best!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="txt5">Charles Kirby, Owner of C.K. Remodeling &amp; Design</span></div>C.K. Remodeling &amp; Designnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7222647104622809607.post-35091070077579849082018-01-01T17:47:00.002-05:002018-01-01T17:50:13.431-05:00A New Year’s Resolution for Homeowners!A traditional New Year’s resolution may focus on your career, finances, health, personality, physical appearance, relationship status, or social circle. However, this year we challenge you to go against the norm and set a goal that caters to the needs of your home. By doing so, you not only create a sense of achievement for yourself by tending to simple tasks; but you also create the potential to significantly increase the value (and safety) of your residence. Believe it or not, a resolution pertaining to the care or upgrade of your home can easily be started by taking a walk around your house with a pen and a piece of paper. Make a list of all of those small repairs that you have been meaning to do, and then make time this New Year to get them done. It is much easier to accomplish these tasks if they’re written down, and making small repairs now is much less expensive than making large repairs later due to neglect. Along with tending to minor repairs and cosmetic upgrades, consider adding true value to your home by renovating your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, or other basement and recreational areas of the home. Home renovations cost a lot less now than just a few years ago and it may be a good alternative to moving, lol.<br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Need some inspiration? Well, here is a whole list of ideas to get you started!</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Fresh paint. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the look and value of your home.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Move your furniture for a new look and to optimize space. Changing the layout of your furniture will change your mood. If you feel stuck, it might be time to repurpose some rooms.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Create a space for fitness in your house. Almost everyone places "lose weight" and "exercise more" at the top of their New Year's resolution list. You don't need an expensive home gym, just a little reorganization and an exercise mat.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Reorganize your closets by installing a shelving unit. Take some time and sort through old clothes, papers, and possessions. Clothing can be donated to a charity. Papers and boxes can be recycled or thrown out. Nothing says, "I'm getting my life together" like a clean house.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Declutter your basement and attic. Clean storage spaces mean fewer pests and fewer hazards. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Clean out the garage and make your home bicycle-friendly. Common sense says that if you could get your bike out of the garage, you'd ride it. Biking is a green solution that promotes fitness, and more people would do it if their homes were more bike-friendly.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Swap out old light bulbs with energy saving light bulbs. An ENERGY STAR qualified fluorescent light bulb can save money and reduce your electricity bill.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Install GFCI outlets. Get your house up to code and prevent electrical fires. Even if you have to hire a local electrician to do the work, it will probably cost you less than you expect.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Seal drafty windows and doors. Sealing windows and doors can save on heating costs by reinforcing drafty window frames.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Install programmable digital thermostats. By replacing your thermostats with programmable models, you can save on heat and improve your home’s energy efficiency.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Wrap your pipes: It's cheap, simple, and prevents freezing and bursting over the winter.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Clean the lint from your dryer hose. It’s easy to do and will significantly reduce the risk of fire.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• Install on-demand hot water or a solar thermal water heater. Stop wasting energy and money on keeping your water tank hot 24-7.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Service your heating and/or air conditioning. Professionally service your home’s HVAC equipment every year to maximize efficiency and avoid any major maintenance issues.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Clean Gutters. Gutters should get a good cleaning every fall, but this is a chore that is often procrastinated.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Install gutter guards. They'll make your biennial gutter cleaning much easier. This year, embrace preventative home maintenance.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Ventilate the attic. Roof vents and gable fans are two of the most overlooked and most effective ways to keep your house cool in the summer.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">• Inspect Your Roof. Many roof repairs are simple. Identify and fix leaks early by inspecting your roof before and after winter.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">• Landscape the exterior of your property. Give your home some added curb appeal to make a great first impression to potential buyers. Otherwise, you may as well place a sign in your front yard that says, “The inside of the house is as dumpy as the outside.” Hence, that’s exactly what buyers will think as they drive past your home and move onto the next listing. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">• </span>Secure your home. Don't wait until someone breaks in before finding the peace of mind that comes with knowing you've done everything you can to keep intruders out of your home. While most of the steps you need to take can be performed by a handyman or security professional, there are a few you can do yourself. Start by increasing the visibility of your windows from the street by cutting down shrubs and bushes, so intruders have no place to hide. Replace door locks at any access points to your home. Leaving outdoor lights on overnight or installing motion-detection sensors can also help ward off bad guys. A handyman can help with the following: Building a hidden safe into a wall or floor; Upgrading single-pane to double-pane windows with security glass; Adding metal screen doors or decorative wrought-iron gates (they provide security while adding value to your home); Covering up unused doggie doors or replacing them with a secure, locking version; Installing solid-core doors or sturdy steel models to replace hollow entry doors; and Cutting a mail slot into your door or garage instead of using an outdoor mailbox (preventing thieves from stealing checks and credit card numbers); and drilling a peep hole into your front door if you don't already have one. A security professional can install an alarm or upgrade your current system to include some of the exciting innovations in smart-home automation. Together with a few well-placed exterior and interior cameras, you can easily monitor the action around your home while you're away by simply taking a look at the screen of your smartphone, notebook, or iPad. While it used to be a luxury of only the very wealthy, mobile home security monitoring is now within reach of any homeowner’s budget.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">•</span>Hire a home inspector to check your house for structural problems. Rotting beams, hidden termite nests, an old electrical system that's about to go on the fritz, leaking pipes, etc....most structural problems are hidden until they reach the breaking point and become expensive and disruptive repairs. Find them now and plan your home repair and maintenance schedule accordingly.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Now that you have plenty of ideas to choose from, it’s time to get started! Do a survey of your home to discover what projects are essential for your safety and peace of mind. Pace yourself - - there’s no need to feel overwhelmed by trying to get them all done at once. Schedule projects based on your availability and budget. While most of the projects listed above can easily (and safely) be accomplished on your own, don’t be afraid to seek out a professional to deal with those involving electricity, plumbing, heights, or the use of dangerous tools and equipment. Should you need assistance with any of your home improvement projects, contact us at (412)965-9361 or ck@ckremodeling.com for a free consultation and estimate. Please visit our website for more information and direct access to our online portfolio. <span class="txt5">Also, we encourage you to follow us on all of our social media sites to keep up to date with our latest activities. While it's clear we enjoy building products, we also enjoy building relationships; so we respectfully "follow back" every person or small business that chooses to follow us on our social media sites.</span> We wish you all the best in this coming year and hope that our suggestions add value (and safety) to your home!</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Happy New Year to all! </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">Charles Kirby, Owner of C.K. Remodeling &amp; Design</div>C.K. Remodeling &amp; Designnoreply@blogger.com0